Paper Doll Ceremony
(could also be adapted for use with Brownie levels by substituting the word “fly-up” for “bridging”)
This could be used as an invitation to this bridging ceremony:
As an invitation, or expanded to a large table centerpiece, this idea clearly conveys the meaning of bridging from one level of Girl Scouting to the next.
Cut a piece of construction paper into a rectangle 5” x 9” Fold paper in thirds (ends folded toward center). Trace pattern on front of paper, and cut as indicated, leaving doll attached at arms, skirt and shoes. Open up dolls. Write message on center doll.
Different colors of construction paper can be used for the different levels:
Brown for Brownies
Green for Juniors
Blue for Cadettes
For centerpiece, enlarge pattern on posterboard, cutting 4 paper dolls to form a square when opened to stand.
As each Girl Scout says her verse she stretches out her hand to the next Girl Scout to speak, until all the girls are linked like paper dolls across the front of the room. Verses may be split if you have more than seven girls bridging. Girls who do not have speaking parts could also stand up with hands linked like paper dolls
| Take my hand in friendship I give to you this day Remember all the good times We had along the way |
Take my hand in thanking Our leader and our guide With sincere appreciation For standing by our side |
| Take my hand in helping Other people that we know The more we give to others The more that we will grow |
Take my hand in eagerness To be an older scout We’re proud to be bridging Is what we’re going to shout |
| Take my hand in learning To camp on nature’s ground Enjoying trails and campfires With new friends that we have found |
So take my hand to follow New scouting paths in sight We’ll join hands with each other And in friendship we’ll unite |
| Take my hand in giving Our knowledge of true scouts To girls we meet and talk to Who have so many doubts |
(In unison): We give our hands in promise To hold our country dear And abide by the Girl Scout Law Each day throughout the year |